Apply now for youth civic academy

Applications are available for the city’s third annual Youth Civic Leadership Academy (YCLA), a free six-session program designed to educate and engage high school students about the inner-workings of City government.

From visiting a water treatment plant to meeting with fire fighters and emergency responders, students will learn the ins and outs of Pittsburgh local government. YCLA will take place every Tuesday and Thursday evening beginning July 9 through July 25, 2013 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. YCLA is the youth component of the Mayor’s Civic Leadership Academy, and part of his servePGH initiative.

“The Youth Civic Leadership Academy allows us the unique opportunity to continue educating our young residents through the summer months and help develop their leadership skills,” Mayor Luke Ravenstahl said. “More than 125 Civic Leadership Academy graduates have gone on to do great things in their communities. Engaging our local youth now will give them a head start on what they can do for themselves and for our city in the future.”

The sessions will highlight different city departments and the services they provide that help make Pittsburgh America’s “Most Livable City.” Participants will enjoy tours, hands-on demonstrations and fun activities to get an up-close and personal view of how each department helps to operate the City. YCLA will conclude with a graduation ceremony, and graduates will develop a group service project based on their experiences.

Applicants must be a high school student residing within Pittsburgh City limits at the time of application. Special consideration will be given to applicants who are highly motivated, interested in community service and civic engagement, and committed to using the experience to make a positive difference in their neighborhood and/or school communities.

The city will provide bus/shuttle transportation to sessions held outside the Downtown area, as well as Port Authority bus passes for all sessions.

Interested youths may apply online at pittsburghpa.gov/ycla or request a hard copy application by contacting the Mayor’s Office of Service & Civic Engagement at 412-255-2280 or servepgh@pittsburghpa.gov. Applications must be received no later than 5 p.m. on June 3, 2013; late applications will not be accepted. Applicants will be notified of their status by mid-June.